ISLAMABAD: Prominent businessman, billionaire, and former Fulham Football Club owner, Mohamed Al Fayed was the father of Dodi Al Fayed who died with Diana, Princess of Wales, a member of the British royal family, on August 31, 1997 in University Hospitals Paris, France.
Al Fayed died at the age of 94 on Friday. Diana – born on July 1, 1961 in Sandringham, United Kingdom – was the first wife of King Charles III and mother of Princes William and Harry. Her activism and glamour made Diana an international icon and she earned an enduring popularity.
Al Fayed, originally from Egypt, was widely recognised for his ownership of Harrods and his commitment to philanthropy. During his life, he made a significant impact on both the world of football and British society.
Though Al Fayed arrived in the United Kingdom during the 1970s, his longstanding aspiration to obtain British citizenship remained unfulfilled. Anyhow, his influence extended far beyond immigration matters.
During his ownership of Fulham FC, the club saw a remarkable rise from the third tier to the Premier League. The club also expressed deep sorrow at the news of his passing, recognising the debt of gratitude owed to him for his contributions.
Al Fayed’s journey, from humble start in Egypt, where he sold fizzy drinks on the streets, to becoming a prominent business figure is a testament to his ambition and determination. His acquisition of the Paris Ritz hotel and Harrods in 1985, following a fierce bidding war, further endorsed his reputation as a successful businessman.
The billionaire was a dedicated philanthropist, generously supporting various causes, particularly those focused on underprivileged and unwell children. In 1987, he established the ‘Al Fayed Charitable Foundation’ aiming at improving the lives of disadvantaged youngsters.
However, the death of his son, Dodi, and Princess Diana in a Paris road crash in 1997 remained a tragic chapter in Al Fayed’s life. This incident deeply affected him, leading to years of questioning the circumstances surrounding their deaths, including controversial claims that were ultimately dismissed.
Al Fayed’s passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on British football, philanthropy and business will be remembered for years to come.
